damoiselle
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A young unmarried woman: A historical or literary term for a young woman, particularly one of noble birth, who is not yet married. This term is now considered archaic.
Usage
- The term is used in historical contexts, literature, or poetry to refer to a young lady, often implying youth, nobility, or courtly manners.
- It is an archaic word and is rarely used in modern, everyday English.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- The word is sometimes used in modern contexts to evoke a historical, romantic, or chivalric atmosphere, often in creative writing or historical reenactment.
Variants and Related Words
- Damsel (noun): A more common modern variant with the same core meaning of a young unmarried woman, often used in phrases like "damsel in distress."
- Demoiselle (noun): A French borrowing with the same meaning, sometimes used in English in historical or zoological contexts (e.g., the demoiselle crane).
Synonyms
- Maiden: A young unmarried woman (also somewhat archaic).
- Damsel: A young woman, especially in a romantic or literary context.
- Lass: A girl or young woman (regional/informal).
Antonyms
- Matron: A married woman, especially one who is mature and dignified.
- Dame: A woman (can be formal or archaic); also an honorific title for a woman of rank.
Notes
- "Damoiselle" is an archaic spelling. The modern, more recognizable equivalent is "damsel." Its use today is primarily stylistic, to create a specific historical or literary tone.
Noun
- a young unmarried woman